Try going on quiltbug.com and put table runner in the search. There's a really cute table runner that is a free pattern and it's very easy and quick to work up. I've made several of them.

Quilter's Cache is one of my favorite places for info. You can use just about any pattern for a runner, but I recommend starting with a simple one (snowball, or 9-patch) and using nice fabrics to make it look harder. QC also has a great collection of blocks, the easy ones are marked with one "pin" beside the name of the block. This is the link to the blocks:

http://www.quilterscache.com/QuiltBlocksGalore.html

beverly

Here is a link that might be useful: Quilter's Cache info pages

This is the one Caroline posted last year and got me started on them.....I haven't been the same since!

SharonG/FL

Here is a link that might be useful: table topper

Sharon, that is a really cute table runner! I'm glad you posted it.

Kate

I would also suggest a beginning quilter buy a couple quilt magazines. You can check out a variety of styles that way, look at color combinations you might not have considered, see the use of patterned fabric, etc. Look for one that has some basic instruction - usually an article or two towards the back of the magazine - to get you started. Once you get your first 9 patch made you'll see how it all works and then you'll be on your way.